What do I mean by carefully selected? Basically, I mean used and tested by professional climbers and guides. I look primarily for function, versatility and reliability, but I also consider value and style.
Because mountaineering is physically demanding and the amount of gear that we can carry is limited, every piece of gear must be carefully considered. Classic mountaineering philosophies suggest a less is more approach. The French climbing guide, Gaston Rebuffat, advised, “when packing the rucksack remember, weight is the enemy.” He also said, “don't forget anything,”…a challenging contradiction every time.
Every climber goes through a learning process in deciding what is too much and what is not enough. My advice is to experiment—leave a few things out, consider every single item, dare to be a little cold (you may surprise yourself…and learn some new tricks). The rewards of packing light are greater comfort and safety.

—Jim Nelson, Owner

Western Mountaineering "Nothing But The Best"

For over 40 years Western Mountaineering has been making lightweight down sleeping bags of the highest quality. Western takes pride in offering 10 models under 2 pounds which means you have plenty to choose from. All Western bags are made and filled in San Jose California with the higest quality down. Western Mountaineering's motto is "Nothing But The Best Between You And The Elements" stop by and see them for yourself.

Pro Mountain Sport's PRO STARTER RACK

PRO STARTER RACK from Pro Mountain Sports is your first step to trad leading. We carefully selected the finest gear in a broad range of sizes to provide you with everything you need to get you on rock. The DMM Dragons are great for filling larger cracks and with extendable slings they often do not need an additional quick draw. Master Cams from Metolius sneek in to the smallest of finger cracks where Stoppers only ventured before. With a range of passive pro the Rockcentric, Stoppers and Superlite Rocks fill in the gaps and give you a broad range of different styles to try as you learn what you like best.

As an added bonus this mass of gear lifts off the scales at a mere 1lb 12oz. At $299.00 it won't lighten your wallet like the massive racks the other guys offer.

The Mirage is no illusion, it just feels like it’s not there. Made with Montbell's 7-denier ballistic nylon and full box construction this ultra-lighter’s dream is packed full of high lofting 900 fill down and offers unsurpassed warmth to weight ratio. Down accounts for over 40% of the Mirage Parka's weight which makes it feel like you’re wearing next to nothing…except maybe a shroud of pure warmth!

When you are chasing an 8000m dream you don't want to be weighed down. The Montbell Mirage will help keep you warm in the coldest of environments.